Introduction
Just when your baby starts sleeping better — it happens.
Suddenly, naps are skipped, bedtimes become a struggle, and your once predictable nights are filled with crying, waking, or resistance.
Welcome to the world of sleep regressions — a normal and expected part of childhood development, but one that often catches parents off guard.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- What sleep regressions are
- When they typically occur
- What’s biologically normal
- When disrupted sleep may signal something more
- And how to gently support your child (and yourself) through it all
What Is a Sleep Regression?
A sleep regression refers to a temporary period when a baby or young child who was previously sleeping well begins to wake more often, resist sleep, or struggle with naps.
It’s not a setback — it’s a sign of developmental progress.
During regressions, the brain is undergoing rapid changes that temporarily disrupt sleep architecture.
Sleep regressions are linked to milestones like:
- Neurological leaps
- Motor development (rolling, crawling, walking)
- Language acquisition
- Separation awareness and emotional development
Common Ages for Sleep Regressions
While every child is unique, the following ages are commonly associated with sleep disruptions:
🔹 4-Month Sleep Regression
What’s happening:
This is the first and most significant change. Your baby’s sleep architecture shifts to mirror adult-like sleep cycles with more light sleep stages and frequent arousals.
Signs:
- Frequent night wakings
- Short naps
- Needing more help to fall or stay asleep
This regression is permanent — meaning the baby doesn’t return to newborn sleep patterns. Sleep habits formed after this point matter.
🔹 8-10 Month Regression
What’s happening:
Motor skills (crawling, pulling to stand), object permanence, and separation anxiety emerge.
Your baby is learning more, processing more — and resisting sleep more.
Signs:
- Increased night wakings
- Nap refusal
- Clinginess at bedtime
🧠 Sleep disruptions often align with brain development leaps/ growth spurts.
🔹 12-Month Regression
What’s happening:
Some toddlers attempt to drop to one nap too early, leading to overtiredness.
They also test boundaries and crave more autonomy.
Signs:
- Refusing second nap
- Early waking
- Increased resistance at bedtime
📌 Keep two naps as long as possible — early nap transitions often backfire.
🔹 18-Month Regression
What’s happening:
Language explosion, emotional awareness, and strong attachment needs make this a peak period for resistance.
Signs:
- Saying “no” to bedtime
- Requiring more parental presence to sleep
- More frequent or dramatic night wakings
🔍 Sleep often becomes entangled with behaviour — but still needs to be seen through a developmental lens.
🔹 2-Year Regression
What’s happening:
Cognitive leaps, fears (monsters, darkness), independence, and toilet learning can all impact sleep.
Signs:
- Refusal to nap or go to bed
- Increased bedtime stalling
- Night waking with anxiety
📖 Understanding the toddler’s need for control and predictability helps navigate this stage.
What’s Normal During a Regression?
- Waking more frequently at night
- Shorter naps or skipped naps
- Increased clinginess
- Needing more help falling asleep
- Temporary change in mood and feeding
These behaviours typically last 2–6 weeks, depending on the child and the strategies used during this time.
When It’s Not Just a Regression
While regressions are normal, some signs suggest there may be more to investigate:
- Persistent sleep issues lasting longer than 6–8 weeks
- Sudden onset of bedwetting after being dry for months
- Snoring, gasping, or noisy breathing during sleep
- Poor weight gain or feeding struggles
- Unexplained mood swings or extreme fatigue during the day
- Very short naps despite age-appropriate routines
These may point to underlying medical concerns (e.g., sleep apnea, low iron/ferritin, reflux) or unmet sensory/emotional needs.
How to Support Your Child Through a Sleep Regression
- Stay Consistent
Stick to a predictable sleep routine, even if your child resists it temporarily. Routine brings security during leaps. - Adjust Wake Windows
Developmental changes may shift how long your child can stay awake. Ensure you’re not putting them down too early — or too late. - Offer Extra Comfort
Sleep regressions often bring emotional intensity. Respond with connection — without undoing healthy boundaries. - Watch for Signs of Overtiredness
An overtired child will resist sleep more, not less. Maintain naps when possible and avoid skipping rest. - Avoid Big Sleep Changes (Unless Necessary)
Don’t rush to drop naps, move to a bed, or introduce new sleep methods during a regression — unless the current approach truly isn’t working. - Take Care of Yourself
Regressions impact the entire family. Seek help, rest where possible, and know this phase will pass.
Final Thoughts
Sleep regressions are a sign of growth — not failure.
They can be exhausting, confusing, and emotional, but they’re also part of the incredible transformation your child is going through.
With patience, support, and evidence-based strategies, you and your child can navigate these stages with more calm and clarity.
📩 If you’re unsure whether your child is going through a regression or facing something more, I’m here to help.
Book a free 30-minute consultation, and let’s take a closer look — together !
